Vice President, Public Affairs & Crisis Communications, Relate, Ruder Finn

Responsibilities

• Serve as the senior strategic advisor to clients on public affairs, reputation management, and crisis response
• Lead the development and execution of high-impact communications strategies in response to evolving issues, including infrastructure updates, political developments, and public sentiment
• Cultivate and manage strong relationships with media, government stakeholders, and community leaders
• Provide proactive and reactive media relations counsel, including message development, press materials, media training, and interview preparation
• Monitor emerging risks and issues, lead rapid response efforts, and manage crisis communications plans
• Collaborate with internal client teams and executive leadership to align messaging with business objectives and public expectations
• Identify opportunities for earned media and stakeholder engagement that reinforce client goals and transparency
• Stay ahead of trends in energy, government policy, and public opinion that may impact the sector or client operations
• Represent Ruder Finn’s values in client engagement, contributing to new business development and organic growth opportunities

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in communications, public affairs, political science, journalism, or a related field
• Minimum of 8+ years of experience in public relations, with a strong emphasis on public affairs, crisis communications, and media relations and experience working in the energy/electrical/utility vertical
• Exceptional writing, presentation, and verbal communication skills
• Deep knowledge of political, economic, and media landscape, with experience managing sensitive, high-profile issues
• Demonstrated success in advising senior-level executives on complex communications strategies and media engagement
• Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with journalists, policymakers, regulators, and community stakeholders
• Passion for serving the public and navigating nuanced, multicultural contexts

Benefits

• You will receive a competitive base salary and bonus opportunity
• You will also be able to enroll in our Health, Dental, Vision, company paid Life Insurance, Flexible Spending Account, as well as 401k (match) plan
• Monthly allowance for cell phone, office equipment, etc.
• Generous PTO policy with paid maternity/paternity leave
• Professional learning and development opportunities
• Workplace flexibility
• On-site and off-site social gatherings